Garima Arora
Garima Arora, the acclaimed Indian chef, was born and raised in Mumbai. Hailing from a Punjabi Arora family, she experienced a culturally rich upbringing that would later influence her culinary journey. Initially, Arora pursued a career in journalism, but her passion for food ultimately led her down a different path.
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Personal Life of Garima Arora
In her personal life, Garima Arora is known for her diverse interests and a deep appreciation for art and culture. When she’s not delighting palates with her culinary creations, she enjoys exploring various cuisines, seeking inspiration from different flavors and cooking techniques. Arora’s personal experiences and the diversity of her own background have undoubtedly shaped her unique approach to cooking.
Professional Life of Garima Arora
Garima Arora’s professional journey has been nothing short of remarkable. In 2008, she embarked on a transformative chapter by leaving for France, where she studied at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris and graduated in 2010. The opportunity to work alongside esteemed culinary figures such as Chef Gaggan Anand, Gordon Ramsay, and René Redzepi of Noma in Copenhagen further honed her skills and expanded her culinary horizons.
Arora’s dedication and talent led her to open her own restaurant, Gaa, in Bangkok in April 2017. Gaa quickly gained recognition for its innovative approach to blending traditional Indian techniques with a modern tasting menu. The restaurant became a testament to Arora’s creativity and ability to push boundaries in the culinary world.
Awards and Recognitions
Garima Arora’s contributions to the culinary scene have been widely recognized and celebrated. In November 2018, she made history by becoming the first Indian woman to win a Michelin star. This prestigious honor was bestowed upon both Arora and her restaurant, solidifying her status as a trailblazer in the culinary industry.
In addition to the Michelin star, Arora’s accomplishments have garnered numerous other accolades. She was named Asia’s Best Female Chef in 2019 by the World’s 50 Best Restaurants, further cementing her position as an influential figure in the culinary world.
Parent’s Name and Family
Garima Arora comes from a Punjabi Arora family. Her family background and upbringing in Mumbai likely played a significant role in shaping her culinary interests and passion for food.
FAQ
Who is Chef Garima Arora's husband?
Chef Garima Arora is married to Rahul Verma, an Indian pilot born in 1983. He attended Sacred Heart School in Maharashtra and has worked with airlines such as SpiceJet and Jet Airways. The couple shares a daughter and, as of January 2025, are expecting their second child.
What is Garima Arora's role in MasterChef India?
Garima Arora made history as the first female judge on “MasterChef India” during its seventh season in 2023, joining chefs Vikas Khanna and Ranveer Brar. Her participation brought a fresh perspective to the show, inspiring many with her culinary expertise. In the subsequent season, pastry chef Pooja Dhingra replaced her as the third judge, though Garima made guest appearances.
What is Garima Arora's net worth?
As of 2024, Garima Arora’s estimated net worth is around ₹40 crore (approximately $5 million). This wealth primarily stems from her successful culinary career, including her Michelin-starred restaurant Gaa in Bangkok and her role as a judge on “MasterChef India.” Her ventures have significantly contributed to her financial success.
What restaurants does Chef Garima Arora own?
Chef Garima Arora owns Restaurant Gaa in Bangkok, established in 2017, which earned a Michelin star in 2018, making her the first Indian woman to achieve this honor. In December 2024, she expanded her culinary footprint to India by opening “Banng” in Gurugram, Haryana. This venture, in collaboration with restaurateur Riyaaz Amlani, brings Bangkok’s vibrant flavors to the Indian dining scene.
How old is Garima Arora?
Born on November 9, 1986, in Mumbai, Garima Arora is 38 years old as of February 2025. She pursued journalism before transitioning to a culinary career, studying at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris and graduating in 2010. Her journey reflects a blend of diverse experiences leading to her culinary success.
Does Garima Arora have a restaurant in India?
Yes, Chef Garima Arora opened her first restaurant in India, “Banng,” in December 2024. Located in Gurugram, Haryana, Banng offers a unique dining experience that blends Bangkok’s bold flavors with Indian culinary traditions. This venture marks her return to the Indian culinary scene, aiming to provide a refreshing take on Thai cuisine.
Is Garima Arora pregnant?
As of January 2025, Chef Garima Arora is eight months pregnant with her second child. Despite her pregnancy, she continues to actively manage her culinary ventures, including the recent opening of her restaurant Banng in Gurugram. Her dedication to her craft remains unwavering during this period.
